David de Gea hits back against his biggest criticism at Manchester United

David de Gea has insisted he feels 'very comfortable' playing with the ball at his feet despite often getting criticised for his inability to do so.

De Gea's shot-stopping quality has never been in doubt and, though it may not be flattering for United's leaky defence, he has made more saves than any other goalkeeper in the Premier League this season.

However, the Spaniard has often come in for flack for a lack of confidence and ability in possession and with his distribution, typified by losing his space in the Spain team in recent years.

However, De Gea believes he can play with the ball and it can be United's struggles in maintaining a good press and high-line that make things difficult.

"What a goalkeeper has to do is to stop goals going in; that's the most important thing," he told UEFA.

"And then, if you have the talent or the quality to be able to play with your feet and have good vision, that's phenomenal.

"I feel very comfortable playing with my feet, playing out from the back, following the lead of my team, but it depends on the coach and the style of play.

"[With Spain we] play with a very high defensive line. I've played this way since I was in the youth teams. [At United] we try to play with a high line, but some players are very fast and very talented, and if the pressing is not good enough, you can have problems at the back.

"But for the goalkeeper, you need to be off your line, looking out for any potential pass in behind to be able to help your defence."

De Gea will return to former club Atletico Madrid with United for the first time since his departure in 2011 on Wednesday as the two sides meet in the Champions League last 16 first-leg.

The 31-year-old has also reminisced about breaking into the